How to generate more donations for Everything?

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NotNull
Posts: 5961
Joined: Wed May 24, 2017 9:22 pm

How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by NotNull »

The amount of donations for Everything are low for quite some time now.
As this is the single source of income for @void, this is not sustainable.


So ... anyone with ideas to increase the amount of donations/income for @void?
froggie
Posts: 320
Joined: Wed Jun 12, 2013 10:43 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by froggie »

Start with the usual ones:
Make it obvious that this is donation supported software - now the only indication is the menu at the top of the download page. Put a banner on the page; put something on the home page; put up a nag screen every few months.
horst.epp
Posts: 1642
Joined: Fri Apr 04, 2014 3:24 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by horst.epp »

I made a donation again.
Hopefully others follow it.
Thanks for the reminder.
klark1kent
Posts: 24
Joined: Thu Aug 11, 2022 1:26 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by klark1kent »

I'm just spit balling here but...

Make a separate thread where all submitted requests for New Features can be consolidated from various threads throughout the site or submitted as new. After confirming the feature doesn't exist, or that he doesn't have an existing method in the program that can perform the functionality, that we don't know about, and that it would require custom development on his part.. "elevate" the request to a shortlist of features that can be implemented once a certain threshold in terms of a donation is met. allow for some sort of crowdfunding or something.

This is a shit explanation but a lot of times people are like " man I'd really like if you had this, I'd pay for something like that... "

There are tons of features recommended all the time, but he's one guy, so he has to prioritize and can't get to them all. He also has to balance his own vision for development, and I'm sure there are requests that have a much lower priority pending what his priorities are....

In this case, the feature requests that meet the donation threshold, move to the highest priority along with bugs/breakfix, or anything else void deems important.

If someone wants it bad enough they could pay the total donation target themselves, or if the feature has community support, they could split the cost...
void
Developer
Posts: 19839
Joined: Fri Oct 16, 2009 11:31 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by void »

Thank you for the donations and support.
Net7
Posts: 1
Joined: Mon Feb 24, 2025 7:13 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Net7 »

Donated today, what I could afford, your site is honestly one of the sites I would appreciate seeing a monthly funding banner on the side, tool makes my personal and work life survivable.

No real ideas outside of just some sort of monthly goal banner, obviously if hes having to seek out other jobs to afford living, its reasonable to post a realistic month to month funding need with the understanding the missing funding has to come from somewhere and reduces his time on the project and could lead to its discontinuation.
Last edited by Net7 on Mon Feb 24, 2025 7:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.
anmac1789
Posts: 745
Joined: Mon Aug 24, 2020 1:16 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by anmac1789 »

oh god i hope this project doesn't get discontinued because that would mean the final end of me to having to sort through all these files.. How much donation on average does he require to come out with the beta and subsequent v1.6, v1.7 etc. ?
GeneralAdmission
Posts: 1
Joined: Sun Jun 02, 2019 5:29 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by GeneralAdmission »

Consider adding a paid license requirement for commercial use beyond a certain threshold, such as any company >5 employees or $X annual revenue. Don't change the software except adding a message in one or two places that commercial use requires a paid license. If a company uses tool X to help make money, it is absolutely reasonable that tool X should cost something.

In the past I have worked at multiple companies where I pushed hard and received approval to purchase licenses for specific software. If I'm ever in the same position again at another company, I would happily use my influence to get the company to purchase licenses for Everything. I'm willing to bet there are many other Everything users who have positions and a voice in their workplace who could also advocate for Everything.

When 1.5 achieves official release, that would be a good opportunity for any license changes. I would recommend *not* changing the licensing for existing versions <=1.4. Vader-style retroactive rule changes tend to piss people off big time. Also, I advise against any restrictive DRM or activation requirements. The frustration and anger at such technologies is only increasing, and unhappy people do not pay people who made them unhappy.
WKen
Posts: 9
Joined: Mon May 15, 2023 5:11 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by WKen »

I think it is necessary to add a good tip because most people may not notice it.
For example, place "Donate" directly in the menu bar, users can hide it, or at some point the prompt window pops up.
(I hope Everything can be updated continuously. If Everything is difficult to sustain, you can launch a donated version or even a paid version. . .Refer to FreeFileSync)
NotNull
Posts: 5961
Joined: Wed May 24, 2017 9:22 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by NotNull »

There is a file manager that uses that principle too: 32-bit is free; 64-bit requires donation.

The Everything Server is intended to be commercial: free for personal use, companies need to get a paid license.
(and my idea would be to create a license that is bound to a specific Active Directory domain, so it won't get abused)

Maybe that can be done for "regular" Everything too, like @GeneralAdmission suggested: free for personal use, paid for commercial use.


Another option:
Create forum membership "badges". Donated 10+ <currency> => Fan. 25+ => Gold Member.
Not my favourite, as I think one should earn status, not "just" buy it. Just brainstorming; maybe it can lead to other ideas ..
NotNull
Posts: 5961
Joined: Wed May 24, 2017 9:22 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by NotNull »

I just realized that this is where an A.I. should shine.
ChatGPT has the following thoughts:
(layout got a bit messed up, but message should still be clear)



Generating more income for a donation-ware application with a large user base can be done creatively while maintaining the ethos of the application. Here are some ideas:
1. Freemium Model

Offer the basic version of your application for free, and charge for premium features that enhance the user experience. Some examples:

Exclusive Content/Features: Add features such as advanced analytics, additional customization options, or premium support.
Ad-Free Experience: Allow users to donate for an ad-free experience, or offer a premium plan to remove ads.
Priority Access: Users who donate more could get access to new features first or have priority in support queues.

2. Voluntary Subscription Tiers

Implement a voluntary subscription model where users can donate on a regular basis in exchange for perks. For example:

Monthly/Yearly Donation Plans: Offer users the ability to contribute regularly in exchange for certain perks, such as exclusive content, badges, or other community benefits.
Recognition: Create tiers based on donation amounts, and offer recognition, such as special badges, shout-outs, or other rewards.

3. In-App Purchases for Customization


Allow users to purchase in-app items that enhance their experience, like:

Personalized Themes: Offer special themes, backgrounds, or skins that users can purchase.
Virtual Goods: Depending on the type of application, offer in-app purchases such as virtual gifts, avatars, or other fun enhancements.
Enhanced Functionality: Offer functionality that improves the user experience, such as extra storage, additional features, or advanced analytics.

4. Crowdfunding or Campaigns

Crowdfunding for New Features: Use your existing user base to fund the development of new features or projects. This can be done via platforms like Kickstarter or through in-app campaigns.
Campaigns for Specific Causes: If your app has a social cause or charity element, allow users to contribute to specific charitable campaigns within the app.

5. Affiliate Marketing or Partnerships

Form partnerships with businesses that align with your app's values or target audience. You could earn revenue by promoting their products or services:

Affiliate Links: Integrate affiliate marketing for related products (e.g., books, software, or services your users might enjoy) and offer recommendations via your app.
Partner with Brands for Sponsorships: Partner with companies that want to reach your audience and offer them an opportunity to sponsor specific features, events, or even the app itself.

6. Offer Paid Workshops, Courses, or Webinars

If your app has educational or training components, create value-added services such as:

Premium Content: Offer workshops, courses, or webinars that users can pay for.
Expert Services: Provide users access to expert consultations or premium customer support through paid sessions.

7. Branded Merchandise

Sell branded merchandise such as T-shirts, stickers, or accessories that represent your app. The proceeds can help support your app’s development and growth while giving your users a way to show their support.
8. API Access or B2B Solutions

If your app is widely used and has valuable data or functionality, consider monetizing it by offering an API or creating a business-to-business (B2B) model:

API Access for Developers: Offer developers or businesses access to your app’s API for a fee. This would allow them to build additional integrations or use your service’s data.
White-label Solutions: Provide a white-label version of your app for businesses to integrate into their operations, offering a revenue stream through licensing or subscription.

9. Host Fundraising Events or Challenges

Organize virtual or real-world events, such as challenges or charity drives, where users can donate or participate to unlock rewards or experiences.


10. Sponsored Content or Advertisements (Non-intrusive)

While you don’t want to disrupt the user experience, you could explore non-intrusive ways of generating revenue through advertisements:

Sponsored Content: Partner with brands or content creators to feature sponsored content within your app, like blog posts, videos, or tutorials that align with your audience’s interests.
Non-invasive Ads: Use banner ads or native ads that blend with the app, ensuring they don’t take away from the user experience.

11. Donor Recognition and Giving Programs

Matching Donations: Partner with corporations or wealthy philanthropists who match donations made by users. This encourages more users to donate, knowing their contributions will be doubled.
Loyalty Programs: Reward regular donors with discounts, exclusive content, or other perks.

12. Host Community Events (Online and Offline)

Events with Entry Fees: Create special events or meetups that have a small fee, whether virtual or in person.
Challenge Campaigns: Run charity or challenge events where participants donate to enter, compete, or receive rewards.


By integrating some of these strategies, you can create a steady revenue stream while keeping the integrity and purpose of your donation-ware app intact. The key is finding ways to add value while keeping the user experience positive.
NotNull
Posts: 5961
Joined: Wed May 24, 2017 9:22 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by NotNull »

And another one: Paid support contracts for getting higher priority with questions asked.
Or implementing Everything (companies will definitely pay for not having figuring it out themselves).
Etienne
Posts: 3
Joined: Fri Oct 11, 2024 10:17 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Etienne »

Hi, it helped a lot to ask. I just made my first donation, thank you.
I think a few products make heavy use of everything - like dopus, for instance.
It would be reasonable to ask them point out your value to their users and suggesting they may make a donation.
Dopus should put a little note on their settings page and manual pages that reference everything that it is user and donation supported, with a link to donate. If it helps persuade them, you can offer to link everything users to them a bit more prominently too.

Make it clearer and more prominent on this website that this is your private project and source of income which depends on donations.

you have a little bit a room left inside the app to prompt users to donate - too much would be annoying and make the product worse, but there is plenty of slack for adding some of that before it becomes too much -- especially if it can just be turned off in the settings.

Finally, maybe something like a fund for specific features could help -- something like allowing donations to go towards a specific feature and a funding goal for it - and promise to prioritize the feature if/when the goal is met. I would match my previous donation to fund adding descript.ion support, for instance.

Thanks again and good luck.
codenation
Posts: 15
Joined: Sun Dec 01, 2019 6:22 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by codenation »

I like the branded merchandise idea. An everything Tshirt or mug would be cool. Also, the idea of bounty, or paid features, you can put a cost to what people want, along with a link and when it is paid for, then you can work on it.
NotNull
Posts: 5961
Joined: Wed May 24, 2017 9:22 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by NotNull »

Another thing: the text on the Donations page ..

Current text:
Your donation is appreciated and will ensure future development of "Everything".
Donations will help towards hardware, software, hosting and other costs.
To me this sounds like Everything is being developed on rainy days in the weekend.

This text needs to be improved, although I don't know how (at the moment).
X-Bit
Posts: 1
Joined: Tue Apr 22, 2025 2:43 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by X-Bit »

Hi!

I'm using Everything for some time now and I wasn't even aware, that this is developed based on donations, I'll be sure to donate as soon as I can!

The idea to push certain parts of the development through crowd funding, made by @klark1kent, would be a quite novel and creative way for securing the future of Everything, which I use and love on a daily base.

Commercial license would be a good way too, maybe a more visible link in the search window for everybody?

Perks or merch is always the lazy way to go in my book, but hey, it works for others!

Anyway, this is my first post in this forum and, from the bottom of my heart, I would like to thank you for hours / days / weeks / months... saved in my life looking for stuff!
ElizabethC
Posts: 2
Joined: Fri Apr 11, 2025 12:01 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by ElizabethC »

As a new user, I am really surprised Everything is free, with only donations requested. It's worth paying for, especially if you offer a site license option.
Native2904
Posts: 112
Joined: Mon Nov 22, 2021 8:36 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Native2904 »

With Apple, you have to pay for almost all good software and that's actually the right thing to do. So why not pay for essential software on Windows too?! Thx
horst.epp
Posts: 1642
Joined: Fri Apr 04, 2014 3:24 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by horst.epp »

Native2904 wrote: Tue May 06, 2025 8:40 pm With Apple, you have to pay for almost all good software and that's actually the right thing to do. So why not pay for essential software on Windows too?! Thx
That's a strange idea.
There are a lot of free good software for all sorts of OS..
If you don't have this on your Apple, that's the fault of Apple and your selection :)
Native2904
Posts: 112
Joined: Mon Nov 22, 2021 8:36 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Native2904 »

2Horst.Epp
Not quite true. Software such as Alfred, Commander One, KeyCue, Cyberduck, Paragon Hard Disk Manager have to be paid for and are well worth it. Apart from the fact that KeyCue now wants to make a subscription out of it; that's a bit of a rip-off.
Nevertheless, there is Homebrew and Github with tons of good software for free, which is certainly pretty good; but across the board you can say that it is rather rudimentary, except for the Cli tools (Ranger, Vim, Oh-My-ZSH, rsync, Curl, tldr, glances and the terminal replacement iTerm). But TotalCommander is the crowning glory, as all upgrades are included and Xyplorer is also a feast for the eyes and a good alternative to Explorer (but I only have a rookie version without an upgrade).
I love every operating system (Win,OSX,Manjaro) and each has its advantages. When I was on the Apple, I didn't want to use Windows anymore, but there's no substitute for TotalCommander if you want to edit a lot of files and through it I found my original love for Windows again - reinforced by Everything and the killer feature of displaying images with geodata, distances and interacting with the TC.
Last edited by Native2904 on Wed May 07, 2025 4:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Unknow0059
Posts: 5
Joined: Thu Jun 11, 2020 2:39 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Unknow0059 »

Try what SauceNao does: a "progress" bar, somewhere visible, incentizing donations.

Tabby0932 mentioned similar, but this is a concrete example.
PhredE
Posts: 19
Joined: Sat Jan 30, 2016 6:52 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by PhredE »

Traceable donations please.
I've donated in the past but I've forgotten how much, when and how often.
Email receipts with special/predictable words contained therein, please.
'Voidtools Search Everything Software', perhaps.

Yes, Freemium, but 'subscription' is poison.
Avoid obnoxious exclusions (AOMEI's Partition Assistant Free does many useful things but not MBR2GPT conversion, likely used once or twice.)

Steve Gibson's DNS Benchmark has been free for a long time yet upcoming versions will allow serious users to upgrade to two further levels for a (lifetime) price. That feels good. https://www.grc.com/dns/benchmark.htm
His seminal SpinRite can be bought with individual, tech or corporate licences.

XnView is free/donationware but declares that commercial use requires a licence/s.

The free Shutter Encoder closes, then puts a donation QR code on the screen.
Xion
Posts: 10
Joined: Thu Jun 26, 2025 4:58 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by Xion »

Please don't ruin Everything with ads or popup Windows like ccleaner did. Everything is perfect the way it is. Maybe just a popup after installation and after each new update to remind the user to consider donation.
andymbody
Posts: 49
Joined: Fri Nov 25, 2022 7:40 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by andymbody »

First, let me say this from the start... If there was EVER an app that is worthy of payment, this would be at the TOP of that list. This is coming from a person who tries to save a buck every way I can. I am also a (very) amateur developer, so I know at least a little about the effort that goes into a project. And you have been maintaining this project for years with very regular updates and improvements, without compromising quality for lack of income generation (in fact the opposite). Your efforts and dedication to this project are unique. I don't know of a single other app (on the entire world internet) that provides this level of functionality/flexibility/impact/speed/responsiveness from the developer (I could go on and on) that this irreplaceable 6MB arrangement of code provides. It is pure magic... a jewel among stones. No... No... It's the Hope Diamond! And its backed by someone who just keeps giving and giving and giving to his user base. Are you kidding me? I'm sure I am not the only one who feels this way. So, yes indeed, this should be generating regular/dependable income and those who use it and appreciate it's amazing capabilities will be happy to contribute towards that goal. Because if it ever goes away (we never want that to happen), we will throw the computer in the trash if we have to return to MS solution for search. Nightmare! The concept of treating all storage sources as a 'single folder' is absolute genius. And the speed is unbelievable. And that is just scratching the surface of the capabilities of this tool. Like i said... its magic.

But that magic didn't just drop from the sky... it was painstakingly/intelligently designed, by Mr David. Thank you so very much! I use your name because, 'void' in the corner of a forum chat is not a person that needs support. Void is our support for a 'free' product. But David is a human, like us... who needs a regular income... not a nameless bot that pops out to answer questions once in awhile. Believe me, the username has less impact on our desire to support a 'wizard' behind a curtain. Especially for those who are new to the product. It takes time to appreciate that there is a human back there who is pushing the buttons till his fingers bleed to provide a tool that we can easily take for granted.

So I raise my hand in agreement with some of the previous suggestions on this thread.

* I am in favor of subscription based support. But I hesitate when that subscription is higher than $10/month. Why? because of all the other subscription based things I am supporting. These fees add up very quickly. Your product is worth much more than the rest (to me), so I would agree to pay more and drop something else if i had to.
* I can't stand annoying apps that demand or beg for support on a regular basis. Especially immediately - before I have a chance to test it thoroughly. If the app does this, it is uninstalled immediately.
* A colorful 'donate' button in the corner of the app would be a great reminder (for all of us). This product is so useful, I found myself actually seeking a way to support it, rather than trying to hide from it. Regular users will support multiple times (my support comes thru an alternate profile). And this could (easily) be much more income than from a one-time license.
* I like the idea of providing a way to know if your monthly support has been reached or not. The suggestion of a progress bar that is updated sounds interesting. In different colors depending on the state of that progress. Or... maybe the window frame itself changes color (green/yellow/red bias) depending on support received (less intrusive and does not require window real-estate)? I've never seen that approach and it would remind us about the PERSON behind the scenes that is working very hard to provide the capabilities we are using at that very moment. Without an annoying pop-up! Then the donate button it the corner is our next step when we want to help you reach the goal for that month.
* I think companies should pay something to use this app. I don't know how many are using it, but the features in this (single) tiny app are unmatched in my opinion. So once they get a taste, they should be more than willing to pay the chef for the 5 star meal. Especially if customization and priority is part of the package. Which you already try to provide as much as possible for... uh... free? [scratching my head]. Get paid, my friend... they are!

I know nothing about the other marketing strategies or even how much effort is involved in setting up subscriptions, commercial licensing, etc.

But, when I donated earlier today, I saw a 'monthly donation' option (good idea). I am going to put my money where my mouth is, and sign up for that also (in a little bit).

Bottom line... your effort continues long after I press the close button on your app, or turn off my computer, and I'm sure I will see the fruits of that labor in my next visit to this forum (software update). So YOU (Mr. David - the person) deserve on-going support for this absolutely exceptional/irreplaceable product/tool!

Thank you very, very much Sir !!
Andy
void
Developer
Posts: 19839
Joined: Fri Oct 16, 2009 11:31 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by void »

Thank you for your feedback, donations, support and suggestions!
PhredE
Posts: 19
Joined: Sat Jan 30, 2016 6:52 am

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by PhredE »

void wrote: Sun Jul 13, 2025 12:26 am Thank you for your feedback, donations, support and suggestions!
I suggest offering an option advised by your legal associates for a codicil that people could attach to their wills.
A few hundred, ...thousand, when the individual has no further use of the funds could add up to a handy contribution.
It would take time, of course.

Just imagine - if it 'became a thing'.
It could become a meme within the industry, and beyond.

Provide pro-forma codicils, addenda, supplements - depending upon the country - and the process could be achieved with a minimum of fuss.
ChrisGreaves
Posts: 821
Joined: Wed Jan 05, 2022 9:29 pm

Re: How to generate more donations for Everything?

Post by ChrisGreaves »

About one year later ... I would suggest that discussion of Everything has been "done to death" in this thread.

Let's have another twelve months in this thread where we shift the focus away from Everything and towards me, you, us, The User.

I'll kick off with an idea: Suppose you buy a coffee at a coffee-shop. For me, over the past forty years that has ranged from six times a day to (now) zero times a day. OK; if like me you don't visit a coffee-shop (unless on a 3.5 hour drive to the city) substitute "supermarket" or any other regular/frequent service; public library; WiFi spot; gasoline/petrol station.

On each visit to the coffee-shop, put one dollar (US/CDN/AUS or equivalent) in your other trouser pocket or purse, and at the end of each month donate that amount to Everything.
In two words "tax yourself!".


And before you reply: Still focused on the user, how would you feel if you could still download Everything for free and read the threads for free, but in order to post, need to have made a donation - at any level at all - in the past twelve months? That means that you could still thumb your nose at Void, but NOT at users who contribute their knowledge in support.
Note that this is a Boolean quantifier, not a Numeric quantifier.


Next time I post in this thread I might make an argument against the use of the word "free" in any discussion anywhere at all about a product or service. You can read my views on "Free Public Transit" here.

(signed) "Donator" of Bonavista.
Cheers, Chris
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